Front + rear gear sets $300-500, master install kits $200-300 per axle, shop labor $400-800 per axle. Total $1500-3000 for both axles installed.
Regearing both axles is a meaningful project. Cost breakdown:
Gears: $150-250 per axle for Yukon, Motive, USA Standard. Higher for Sierra (premium pinion grade). Add 20-30% for unusually deep ratios (5.13+).
Master install kit: $180-280 per axle. Includes pinion bearings, carrier bearings, races, crush sleeve (or solid spacer), seals, shims, marking compound, hardware. Buy a master kit — don't piecemeal it.
Labor (shop): $400-800 per axle depending on shop and region. Setting up a ring and pinion properly takes 3-5 hours per axle for a professional and requires patience. Coastal/major-city shops charge more.
Total installed both axles: $1500-3000.
DIY: $700-1200 in parts (gears + master kits). Add a dial indicator, marking compound, bearing puller, press access. Time: 8-15 hours for a first-timer per axle. The risk is whining gears from imperfect setup — see the 'buy two diff setups' wisdom entry.
When to DIY: if you have patience, a workbench, and you're willing to redo it if the pattern is bad. The Dana 30 and 35 are forgiving; the 8.25 and 44 are more manageable; the Ford 8.8 is the most straightforward.
When to pay: if you only have one set of gears and one weekend. Shop time guarantees a result.
Cheap shortcut: many XJ owners regear the front only first ($800-1500), drive on mismatched gears for a week, then schedule the rear. The t-case chain takes minor accelerated wear during this time — acceptable for a few weeks, not months.
Written and maintained by an AZ wheeler and driveway wrencher. Always cross-reference your factory service manual — modifications affect vehicle safety and warranty. Work at your own risk.